Almost anyone with any kind of social media connection has heard a story of a price gouger or scalper since the COVID-19 crisis began. Stories of people buying enormous amounts of hand sanitizer or toilet paper only to flog them for inflated prices have become all too common. The government of Saskatchewan is doing its best to shut such people down. 

The province announced in a release on Monday, April 13, that it will not permit businesses or individuals to price gouge during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) said grossly excessive pricing of products or services during a period of crisis that takes advantage of consumers who are unable to protect their own interests due to the impact of the crisis is not permitted. 

According to the province, any violating businesses could face regulatory action and prosecution if found to have engaged in this conduct as it is an unfair business practice contrary to The Consumer Protection and Business Practices Act. Police are also on the lookout for individuals who may have been doing the same.

“During this unprecedented time it is simply unacceptable to be price gouging,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan said.  “Businesses or individuals in Saskatchewan found price gouging will face stiff penalties and possibly jail time.  It is essential that we look out for each other and this government will protect residents of Saskatchewan from exploitation when they are trying to protect their families.”

The release stressed that businesses who need to hike their prices due to increased costs shouldn't fear to do so, within reason. However, businesses that impose grossly excessive price increases on consumer goods or services during periods of crisis may be found guilty of committing an unfair practice.

If you spot what you feel to be price gouging before, during, or after a transaction, or even in advertisements, there are some steps you can take. You can call FCAA’s consumer protection tip hotline at 1-877-880-5550 to provide information. You can also file a complaint online at  https://fcaa.saskatchewan.ca/ or use their tip line. Consumers are encouraged to keep all receipts.